Immersive, flux-guided, micro-coil apparatus and method

ABSTRACT

A pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) web using immersive, flux-guided, micro-coils to direct intense, deeply penetrating, magnetic flux into a subject from each micro-coil capable of pointing in an arbitrary direction. Micro-coils are spooled around iron cores, insulated properly, and soldered to connecting wires, all embedded in a polymeric resin, such as cold-cured silicone resin. Nodes protect, enclose, insulate electrically, and otherwise protect the micro-coils. Connectors between nodes provide mechanical stability against breaking of wires, while permitting folding, bending, buckling, and otherwise deflecting to position the nodes as desired with three degrees of freedom.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application: is a divisional (continuation) of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/276,172, filed May 13, 2014, entitled IMMERSIVE,FLUX-GUIDED, MICRO-COIL APPARATUS AND METHOD, scheduled to issue as U.S.Pat. No. 10,507,333 on Dec. 17, 2019, which is a continuation-in-part ofco-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/890,798, filed May 9,2013, entitled PIEZOELECTRIC, MICRO-EXERCISE APPARATUS AND METHOD, whichis a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/502,998, filedJul. 14, 2009, issued on May 14, 2013 as U.S. Pat. No. 8,439,816,entitled PIEZOELECTRIC, MICRO-EXERCISE APPARATUS AND METHOD, all ofwhich are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND 1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) and, moreparticularly, to novel systems and methods for configuring magneticcoils, a matrix for those coils, and flux guiding by using iron-coremagnets.

2. Background Art

Bones represent a curious structure, often referred to in the prior artas “not well understood.” In space, such as during missions to the moon,extended orbits, work within a space station, normal loading (forces) isabsent. Likewise, during healing of a broken arm or leg immobilized in acast for typically six weeks or more, and the like, bone and soft tissueare lost. In these situations, people of science have studied the lossof cellular mass. The lack of exercise appears to relate to the loss ofmuscle and bone mass. For example, soft tissue, like muscle, atrophieswithout the stress of use. Mass loss is marked after a period ofweightlessness, inactivity, non-weight bearing, immobility, or the like.Inactivity also exacerbates certain diseases, like arthritis. Moreover,bone mass may be lost at a greater rate in the absence of exercise thenit can typically be regained upon resumption of exercise.

What is needed is an apparatus and method to apply exercise to a bonestructure, soft tissues, or both that may be immobilized or subject toatrophy as a result of casting, traction, immobilization,malnourishment, diabetic or other circulation limitations, aging, or thelike. Thus, what is needed is a system and method for applying thisinformation into therapies and devices suitable for use in mammals,including persons, their pets, or both.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing, in accordance with the invention as embodiedand broadly described herein, a method and apparatus are disclosed inone embodiment of the present invention as including a web that frees upa group of micro-coil, electromagnetic, devices to be positioned in aconformal shape suitable for surrounding an appendage, conforming to anypart of the body, use in a bed, inclusion in a pad or blanket, or thelike.

It has been found recently that application of PEMF systems inaccordance with the invention are not only effective for maintainingbone density, assisting in non-joinder fracture recovery, and so forthwith additional benefits. For example, it has been found that the use ofPEMF systems in accordance with Applicants' inventions, after extensiveperiods of immobility and non-weight-bearing conditions required forbone healing, renders the typical muscular atrophy absent. After beingcast for over six weeks, soft tissue tone and mass has beenindistinguishable from that of the opposite, unaffected appendage.

Many advantages have been found for a new configuration of matrix forholding coils, and the use of iron-cored micro-coils. For example, thesystem may be placed in any arbitrary shape, providing three degrees offreedom for arrangement of the direction and the position of variousmicro-coil based electromagnets. The web is made of nodes connected byvarious connectors.

The connectors provide mechanical connection between the nodes. Theyalso embed therewithin electrical connections. Iron cores providegreater magnetic power to the micro-coil magnets. One benefit of themolded, flexible, sparse web is a prevention of damage to connectingwires, by several mechanisms.

For example, one method relies on open molding or casting theconnectors. They may be from about half a centimeter to about one andone half centimeters in effective diameter. A target range is about onecentimeter in effective diameter. The embedded wires therein areautomatically radiused in bending to prevent kinking, high stress, andother factors that tend to break wires. Moreover, the wires arestranded, thus becoming much more flexible. Typically, stranded wires ofabout 22 gauge have been found suitable, and are used with conventionalplastic insulation.

Likewise, the entire circuit is thereby embedded within the web in orderto power a group of from about 15 to about 60 or more nodes containingelectromagnetic micro-coils. Typically, a number of nodes on the orderof from about 10 to about 60 micro-coils in a web has been foundsuitable. The web may be rolled, folded, or the like for storage.Connectors are very flexible. Meanwhile, the web may be wrapped,distorted, secured, positioned, or otherwise located such that theindividual micro-coils are directed at a particular bodily member fromseveral directions.

In certain presently contemplated embodiments, all the micro-coils areconnected in a single, series circuit. In this way, a controller simplycontrols one circuit, and all magnets are cycled with pulsedelectromagnetic forces being generated simultaneously. However, sincethey are at a significant distance from one another, and having ironcores as flux guides, their electromagnetic field or force tends to beconcentrated and directed. It saturates through the bodily member atwhich the particular core and associated micro-coil are directed.

Interference of coils with one another is not a significant difficulty.This is in contrast to prior attempts where no iron cores are used,large flat “mats” or “race tracks” of coils are used, and so forth.Thus, in general, PEMF systems typically will rely on large expanseswith the lines of magnetic flux passing through the coils andimmediately distributing out and away from each other and the centralregion of the coil.

In contrast, apparatus and methods in accordance with the inventionconcentrate flux in iron cores (inside micro-coils) that are then ableto direct and project those electromagnetic fields well into the treatedtissues.

The several micro-coils within a web may be arranged in an arbitraryorientation in multiple directions, including all three degrees offreedom. Moreover, various micro-coils may be simultaneously andarbitrarily aimed by positioning the flux directors, which direct fluxperpendicular to the flat face of a node (appearing something like asmall hockey puck) at the junction of associated connectors.

Mechanically, the web has a certain selective stability. In oneembodiment, the web may be formed of triangles in order to position themicro-coils inside a more-or-less hexagonal perimeter. Individual nodesmay be connected to other nodes by connectors, which may be easilyfolded, distorted, or otherwise buckled in bending, compression, or bothin order to move them about.

Meanwhile, the cross-section of each of the connectors is selected tosupport tension at a value sufficient that the wires are not stretched.Thus, a certain amount of selective stability is provided wherein theweb may be concentrated, folded, bent, and wrapped, but not stretchedappreciably. The result is an immersive, flux-guided, system ofmicro-coils suitable for pulsed electromagnetic field therapy.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing features of the present invention will become more fullyapparent from the following description and appended claims, taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that thesedrawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are,therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the inventionwill be described with additional specificity and detail through use ofthe accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is top perspective view of one embodiment of a PEMF web system inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view thereof;

FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view thereof;

FIG. 5 is a front elevation view thereof;

FIG. 6 is a rear elevation view thereof;

FIG. 7 is a right side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 8 is a left side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of an extended embodiment thereof;

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a PEMF web system, inaccordance with the invention, wrapped around an appendage of a user;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a spool and core forreceiving wire turns to form a micro-coil electromagnet;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a completedmicro-coil;

FIG. 14 is a partially-cut-away, detailed, perspective view of theembedment of a micro-coil within a node of one embodiment of a PEMF webin accordance with the invention;

FIG. 15 is an end, elevation, cross-sectional view of one embodiment ofa connector connected to a node, and embedding a wire there within;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view thereof, representing a segment of a web;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of one embodiment of amold for cold molding a web in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a controller withvarious connectors, lines, and switches in accordance with theinvention;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a switch capableof detecting the presence of a user, and operating the system inresponse to that presence;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 22 is a cut away, cross-sectional, exploded view of a portion of abedding system having a web in accordance with the inventionincorporated there within;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of several components of a web PEMF systemin accordance with the invention lying on a pet bed into which they maybe embedded, thus showing their comparative sizes and configurations;and

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a pet on the pet bed of FIG. 21 ,having the web system embedded there within.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

It will be readily understood that the components of the presentinvention, as generally described and illustrated in the drawingsherein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of differentconfigurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of theembodiments of the system and method of the present invention, asrepresented in the drawings, is not intended to limit the scope of theinvention, as claimed, but is merely representative of variousembodiments of the invention. The illustrated embodiments of theinvention will be best understood by reference to the drawings, whereinlike parts are designated by like numerals throughout.

Referring to FIG. 1 , and to FIGS. 1 through 24 generally, a system 10in accordance with the invention may typically include a web 12. The web12 may be comprised of both mechanical components and electricalcomponents. Typically, a power subsystem 14 or power system 14 willprovide electrical energy to activate the web 12. Also, a cover system16 (see FIGS. 22 through 24 ) as well as other padding, or the like maybe used to render a user more comfortable, hide the web 12, or the like.Nevertheless, the web 12 may be used directly, and without any type ofcover system 16 as seen in FIG. 1 .

In general, a web 12 is formed of nodes 20. In the illustratedembodiments of FIGS. 1 through 17 , the nodes 20 are comparativelyshort, right, circular cylinders appearing something like a puck 20.Individual nodes 20 are connected by connectors 22 or links 22, thatoperate as appendages, arms, legs 22 making both mechanical connectionsand electrical connections. As a practical matter, in certain presentlycontemplated embodiments, the nodes 20 and connectors 22, as to theirmechanical component, may be molded from a resin simultaneously. Asdiscussed hereinbelow, molding at ambient conditions, using aroom-temperature-vulcanizing, silicone rubber is one suitablemanufacturing process.

Meanwhile, the power subsystem 14 includes, among other components, acord system 24. The cord system 24 may include a jack 26 or socket 26 ina node 20 of the web 12. A plug 28 or plug portion 28 may be insertedtherein to effect electrical connection.

Referring to FIGS. 1 through 10 , one will note that the web 12 isconstituted by nodes 20, which may be in any suitable pattern. Forexample, the perimeter is typically hexagonal in the illustratedembodiments, with constituent triangles forming the overall matrix 12 orweb 12. On the other hand, a rectangular arrangement is also possible.For example, the entire grid may be based on rectangles, rendering theoverall perimeter rectangular. Accordingly, a Cartesian grid of nodes 20interconnected by intermediate links 22 or legs 22 may contain theelectrical components all electrically interconnected, dielectricallyinsulated, and mechanically protected by the nodes 20 and connectors 22.

Referring to FIG. 11 , a web 12 in accordance with the invention may bewrapped around an appendage, such as a leg, arm, or head. Likewise, aparticular area such as a knee, ankle, foot, shoulder, or the like maybe wrapped with the web 12. Due to the mechanical connection of thenodes 20 by the links 22 or legs 22, all formed of an elastomeric resin,the web 12 may be highly flexible, without damage to intervening orcontained electrical connectors. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 11 , thenodes 20 may be placed flat against the surface of the appendage inorder to direct electromagnetic flux through the faces (e.g. flat faces)of the cylindrical nodes 20. One will note that the nodes 20 a, 20 b, 20c, in particular, actually are at approximately mutually orthogonalangles with respect to one another.

In this way, a region of a body or a bodily member may be bombarded bypulsed electromagnetic fields (sometimes referred to as electromagneticforces) from several directions, and at varying intensities, based onthe flux densities and the proximity of a node 20. Nevertheless, asillustrated in the upper leg portion of the web 12 of FIG. 11 , severalnodes 20 (for example, 20 a, 20 b, and others) are directing pulsedfields electromagnetic from different angles into the same region ofspace within the appendage.

Likewise, one will note that the various runners 22, legs 22, orconnectors 22 are in various states of distortion. For example, on theone hand, certain of the connectors 22 wrap conformally around theappendage, effectively using the entire length of the connector 22.Other connectors 22 are bent, buckled, folded, and the like, in order toeffect the position and wrapping of the web 12 about the appendage.

Because of the lack of intervening material (mechanical uncoupling intwo dimensions), of either electrical connection, mechanical connection,or both, the web 12, in accordance with the invention, is well adaptedto conformal shaping around the user. In contrast to prior art devices,such as chairs, mats, and the like, having mechanical structureincapable of such arbitrary, conformal shaping, are considerably morelimited.

Moreover, due to the solid core construction of the nodes 20, asdiscussed hereinbelow, flux intensities are greater, penetrationdistances are greater, and immersion is much more complete. Also, themultiplicity of the nodes 20 as well as their compactness and intensityprovide substantially more directed, more intense, if desired, and morepenetrating, pulsed, electromagnetic forces.

Referring to FIGS. 12 through 14 , each of the nodes 20 may form asource 30 of pulsed electromagnetic fields and corresponding force. U.S.Pat. No. 8,439,816 is incorporated herein by reference, and describes indetail various mechanisms for manufacturing, assembling, and usingelectromagnetic sources 30.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the nodes 20 may include a spool32 embedded therein. Prior to being embedded in the resin, such as theRTV silicone resin mentioned hereinabove, the spool 32 may have wrappedaround its barrel 34 or drum 34 an electrical conductor to form anelectromagnet. Meanwhile, the inside aperture 35; the drum 34 of thespool 32 may hold an iron core for such a magnet. A flange 36 on eachend of the drum 34 provides containment of wire turns.

In the illustrated embodiment, wraps or turns of wire may be laid aroundthe outer surface 27 of the barrel 34, and be contained on each endthereof by the flanges 36. Upon achieving the proper number of turns,wire may be passed through an aperture 38 or notch 38 that operates as aholder 38 to maintain tension and stability of the turns on the spool32.

A core 40 formed of suitable iron may fit within the aperture 35 throughthe drum 34. This core 40 operates as a flux director 40 or a flux guide40. It concentrates flux lines preferentially, compared to air or othermedia.

For example, electromagnetic flux lines passing through a coil of wireimmediately begin to repel one another, and typically wrap back out andaround the coil that generated them. Thus, with distance, andparticularly along a center line normal to such a coil (e.g., along thecentral axis running perpendicularly through such a coil), magnetic fluxattenuates rapidly and disperses radially away therefrom.

In contrast, an iron core 40 attracts, collects, and concentrates allflux lines through it and provides them direction and intensity normalto the face (end face) of the spool 32 and core 40. Thus, flux densityis increased, penetration distance is increased, magnetic and the fieldfrom the source 30 is generally more intense, localized, and effective.

Typically, the drum 34 is wrapped with wire 42, which will act as magnetwire 42. In the illustrated embodiment, it has been found suitable toprovide from about 20 to about 200 turns with a target of about 93 turnsof wire 42 on each spool 32. The spools 32 are approximately 2 to 3centimeters in diameter across the flanges 36. Meanwhile, the drum 34 isless than a centimeter long, and typically closer to half a centimeterlong. Thus, wire gauges on the order of 40 have been found suitable forwrapping around the spools 32.

At each end 44, the wire 42 is stripped of insulation. Typically, thewire 42 will be coated with a specific, flexible, insulating coatingthat acts like a dielectric varnish or shellac. Thus, this insulatingcoating may be stripped from a portion of each end 44 in order to rendereach spool 32 a separate unit. This has been found more suitable than aprocess of making all the spools 32 interconnected by the magnet wire42, itself running between spools 32.

Instead, the ends 44 are bonded to wires 46 formed in comparativelyshorter lengths embedded within each of the connectors 22 of the web 12and matching the lengths thereof. For example, each of the ends 48 ofeach segment 46 or leg of wire 46 will typically be stripped ofinsulation. In the illustrated embodiment, the wires 46 are coated witha standard plastic insulated coating. That insulated coating may bestripped from the wire 46 along a suitable distance in order to exposethe bare ends 48.

Accordingly, the ends 44, 48 may be soldered together. As noted above,the notches 38, acting as holders 38, may each receive an end 44 of themagnet wire 42. Typically, these ends 44 may simply be drawn from thecoil 50, wrapped around the drum 34 of the spool 32, and wedged into theappropriate notch 38. Thereafter, the end 44 may be bent flat againstthe flange 36 in preparation for soldering to the end 48 of therespective wire 46 that will interconnect that particular node 20 to itsadjacent nodes 20.

Inasmuch as each node 20 may easily be connected in series in thecurrently contemplated embodiment illustrated, each coil 50 need onlyconnect to two connecting wires 46. In other embodiments, also possible,multiple wires 46 may pass along the connectors 22. Thus, it is possibleto make a parallel connection or even independent operation of each coil50. However, in the illustrated embodiment, it has been found completelysuitable to connect each of the coils 50 of an entire web 12 in series.Thus, all of the coils 50 with their cores 40 are activated at onceaccording to the programmed activation. Again, reference to thedocuments incorporated herein by reference will provide various rangesof power, duty cycles, and so forth.

One will note that a cover 52 operates as an insulating plate 52 toprevent electrical contact between any of the ends 44, 48 and the ironcore 40. In one presently contemplated embodiment, the cover plate 52may simply be a paper or plastic layer provided with a suitable adhesiveon one side. Thus, the cover 52 adheres to a flange 36 having thenotches 38. In certain embodiments, both flanges 36 on each spool 32 maybe provided with a pair of notches 38. Thus, there is no orientationrequirement for the spool 32. That is, the spools 32 may be laid witheither flange 36 up, and still receive the ends 44 of the magnet wire42.

The cover 52, having a suitable adhesive may also provide a temporaryconnector to secure the core 40 inside the drum 34. The cover 52prevents the drum 34 from passing beyond the cover 52, and the adhesiveon the cover 52 provides adhesion to keep the core 40 lodged against thecover 52. Eventually, the casting of the web 12 embedding the spools 32with their wires 42 and connectors 46 in the nodes 20 and connectors 22of the web 12 will render unnecessary the adhesive nature of the cover52. However, the insulating nature of the cover 52 is still important.

Referring to FIG. 14 , a cut-away view of a coil 50 wrapped about aspool 32 inside a node 20 demonstrates one reason for the sizing of thenodes 20. However, another purpose in sizing the nodes 20, in additionto containing and covering the spools 32 and coils 50 with theirconnections to the wires 42, 46 is to provide the proper aspect ratiobetween the height and diameter of each of the cylindrical nodes 20.Thus, each of the “pucks” 20 becomes a medallion 20 that may be placedflat against the surface of a treated member. Also, the aspect ratio ofheight to diameter provides stability in such situations or when used ina mat, bedding, or the like.

Referring to FIG. 15 , one may see the wire 46 with its centralconductor 47 covered by an insulating layer 45. In general, theconnector 22 is substantially larger than the wire 46. Thus, theconnector 22 or the resin of the connector 22 that becomes a flexible,preferably elastomeric, polymeric jacket 22 provides a substantialradius any time the connector 22 is bent along its length. Thus, thewire 46 does not undergo significant risk of damage.

For example, if the conductor 47 were solid, then the wire 46 mightbreak after several cycles of bending. However, if the conductor 47 isstranded, the more finely the better, as a bundle of comparatively thinstrands together, then the wire 46 becomes much more flexible. Itundergoes much less strain (i.e. engineering definition), and so canundertake numerous, hundreds, or even thousands of cycles of bending,without undue distortion, yielding, hardening, or breakage.

Referring to FIG. 16 , in one presently contemplated embodiment, thelegs 22 or connectors 22 between nodes 20 have a flat upper surface 49.This stands in contradistinction to the curved lower surface 51. It hasbeen found that molding is much more effective, rapid, and aestheticallypleasing if bubbles and other sources of inclusions are eliminated.

Thus, as will be described hereinbelow, a poured web 12 has been foundsuitable and results in the flat upper surface 49 in one presentlycontemplated process. That is, for example, by leaving the mold open, sothat air bubbles and the like may freely exit the uncured resin, abetter quality web 12 may be cast. Thus, it has been found preferable topour into an open mold, rather than relying on closed mold technologies.

Referring to FIG. 17 , in certain embodiments of apparatus and methodsfor fabricating the system 10 in accordance with the invention, aprocess 53 may include mounting on a substrate 57 a system forming acavity 56 having an open top 57 and a floor 58. The open top 57 isresponsible for receiving the material that will fill the cavity 56 ofthe mold 60. Likewise, the open top 57 is responsible to evacuate orcarry away any bubbles, outgassing, and the like that may result fromthe molding process 53.

In the illustrated embodiment, the substrate 54 or base 54 supportingthe mold 60 may be fixed or movable. In certain embodiments, the base 54or substrate 54 may actually be a table equipped to vibrate, shake,move, or otherwise provide vertical actuation 62, horizontal actuation64, or both.

For example, vibrating will typically shift heavier materials downwardin the presence of lighter materials. This means bubbles of gas willtypically shift higher while molecules of resin shift lower in thecavity 56 of the mold 60. Settling occurs for multiple reasons, butactuation 62, 64 assists by causing momentum transfers resulting inmovement, promoting rising of gas bubbles or air bubbles from entrapmentthrough the molded product 20, 20 into the surrounding air.

The upper surface 66 of the poured resin filling the cavity 56 of themold 60 will typically be approximately flat. Some shrinkage or the likemay cause a shape other than an exactly flat top surface 66 or uppersurface 66. However, as a practical matter, it has been found animproved process 53 to leave the open top 57, allowing gases to escape.This provides a better result than does injection or other introductionof the resin into the cavity 56 with simultaneous or subsequentextraction of gas in the cavity 56.

Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the floor 58 of the cavity 56 maybe machined out, molded, or otherwise formed to have various depths 68a, 68 b. For example, the wire 46 needs comparatively little depth 68 b.It merely needs sufficient distance 68 d between the upper surface 66,and the floor 58 under the connector 22.

In contrast, the depth 68 a for the node 20 requires accommodation of anentire spool 32 with its coil 50 and the connections of the ends 44, 48of the respective wires 42, 46. Typically, the upper surface 66 will beat the same level for both the nodes 20 and the connectors 22 or runners22 therebetween. In contrast, the particular level of the floor 58 mayvary according to the designs of various components 20, 22.

Ultimately, the full depth 68 c of the mold 60 will include additionalmaterial to provide a thicker wall for purposes of mechanical strength,cooling, possibly, in cases of hot materials, or the like. However, incertain embodiments, the mold 60 need not tolerate a significant amountof heat either for cure or for the heat of reaction of a resin formingthe nodes 20 and runners 22.

Rather, certain polymers, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or thelike may be suitable. Thus, not needing the mass of steel, the wearresistance of steel, nor the high heat transfer capability of aluminum,an operator of the process 53 may use various modest temperature (closeto ambient conditions) and pressures (virtually no difference from thebias of ambient pressure) in order to cast or otherwise mold the webs12.

Referring to FIG. 18 , in one embodiment of an apparatus and method inaccordance with the invention, a controller 70 may include tactilebuttons 72 for interaction with a user. Whether the buttons 72constitute an entire keyboard, a plurality of buttons 72, or a singlebutton 72, some interaction with a user will typically be required.Accordingly, the controller 70 may be provided with computerized access,keyboard access, flash drive access, or the like.

However, in the illustrated embodiment, buttons 72 serve to actuate theprocesses of the controller 70. A microprocessor, computer, or the likemay be embedded within the controller 70, resulting in inputs from auser by way of the buttons 72, by another computer, or both. Any outputor visible information may be presented in a window 74 or a display 74.Other features 76 may include meters, read-outs, displays, logos,instructions, warnings, or the like.

Typically, within a housing 78 of a controller 70 will be containedelectrical power equipment. It may power the electronic functions of thecontroller 70 as well as logic, a circuit board, micro processor chips,or the like. Microprocessor-based controllers 70 are known in the artand have been described in literature incorporated herein by reference.

Various mechanisms may constitute a switch 80. It has been foundsuitable to use a snap switch that may also be referred to as adistributed switch 80, ribbon switch 80, or tape switch 80. This will bedescribed hereinbelow in somewhat more detail. Meanwhile, a cable 82,constituting an electrical conductor 82 may pass from the controller 70to the switch 80 providing for automatic on and off functionality forthe system 10, in the presence or absence of a subject (e.g., pet,person, etc.) lying on the switch 80. Meanwhile, another cable 84 may beprovided with a plug 85 that makes an electrical connection with thecircuit within the web 12.

Likewise, wall power (power from an electrical outlet) may be receivedby the controller 70 for distribution to the switch 80 and to the web 12through the line 84. Accordingly, a line 86 or electrical cord 86, maybe constituted by a common cable 86 carrying conductors from a plug 87connected to standard wall current. In operation, the controller 76 mayreceive all power from the line 86, and may include power supplies,power management circuitry, and the like as known in the art.Accordingly, power from the line 86 powers the controllers 70, as wellas the web 12 by way of the line 84 and plug 85.

The switch 80 is a somewhat different matter in that the switch 80consumes only trivial amounts of power, and only as losses. Thefunctioning of the switch 80 is simply to determine occurrences of adisplacement, distortion, deflection, or the like of the switch 80.Deflection indicates the presence of the user. A resulting “snap” bendthereby closes the switch 80 or triggers the switch 80 to make a closedcircuit which is indicated to the controller 70.

In some embodiments, the switch 80 may actually carry the power thateventually is passed by the line 84 to the web 12. In other embodiments,the switch 80 simply needs to provide a closed circuit, which may bedetected by a voltage, current flow, or the like by some element withinthe controller 70. Thus, the switch 80 need not carry any significant“power” on the order of actual power usage through the line 84 by theweb 12. The switch 80 may be in the circuit of the line 84, or may notbe. However, in currently contemplated embodiments, the voltage acrossthe plug 87, and thus carried by the line 86 is that of wall power.Accordingly, a power supply embedded within the controller 70 modifiesand manages the power, voltage, and current in order to provide acomparatively low voltage, on the order of single digits or tens ofvolts.

Typically, voltages above about 15 to 20 volts would be uncommon. Thisis in contrast to the 110 to 120 volts of wall power. Similarly, theswitch 80 may be a comparatively low voltage (on the order of 5 to 15volts, typical of electronics, and only milliamps of current or less.

Referring to FIG. 19 , while referring generally to FIGS. 19 through 21, and more generally to FIGS. 1 through 24 , in certain embodiments, aswitch 80 may be embedded within a cover 88 or housing 88. The housing88 or cover 88 may be formed of plastic, bonded plastic components, oran extruded plastic tube. It may be a fabric sleeve, a sleeve formed ofmultiple pieces of fabric bonded together, sewn together, or otherwiseconnected. It may be a simple piece of fabric wrapped and sewn into atubular cross-section suitable to enclose the operating components ofthe switch 80.

In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 19 through 21 , a cover enclosesa first conductor 90 and a second conductor 92. Between these twoconductors 90, 92 is placed periodically an insulator 94. The insulator94 will typically be configured in segments. The insulator 94 or spacer94 maintains apart the conductor 90 from the conductor 92. Together,contact between the conductors 90, 92 will pass electrical current,however large or small. It will show a closed circuit, rather than anopen circuit otherwise maintained by the spacer 94 or insulator 94.

Typically, the insulator 94 is formed of a dielectric material, such asplastic, a tape, or the like. In certain embodiments, the insulator 94may simply be a dielectric tape manufactured to match or exceed thewidth of each of the conductors 90, 92. It may be cut into segments thatprovide anywhere from about 20 to about 80 percent open space betweenthe conductors 90, 92.

For example, in one currently contemplated embodiment, a width of about13 millimeters for the conductors 90, 92 has been found suitable, with aspacer 94 acting as an insulator 94 of the same width. However, it hasbeen found that making the insulator 94 in small squares, one may placethe segments 94 at a distance of several lengths apart. Thus, thebending of the switch 80 results in a ready contact between theconductors 90, 92 at some point along the length thereof intermediateadjacent insulators 94.

As a mechanical operation, the switch 80 may include the conductors 90,92 formed of copper, or formed of a copper-coated metal, such as steel.Thus, the conductors 90, 92 may actually operate as springs, andspecifically as “tape” springs that have a tendency to maintain acurvature, operating very much like the blade of a tape measure.

In the illustrated embodiment, in order to make the electrical contactsbetween the conductors 90, 92, the conductors 90, 92 and the spacers 94need to all be formed to be concave in the same direction. Thus, anotherequilibrator 96 may be formed and positioned to operate in an oppositedirection.

For example, in the illustrated cross-sectional views (FIG. 19 having anexploded view as well as the end, cross-sectional view thereof), thestackup of components 88, 90, 92, 94, 96 is illustrated. Each of theconductors 90, 92, as well as the equilibrator 96, will preferentiallykink (in bending along their length as a beam) in one direction over theother. The equilibrator 96 provides a counteracting force, tending toreturn to, and keep the conductors 90, 92 and the equilibrator 96 in, anequilibrium position, which is straight with only the natural curvatureacross the width.

In contrast, pressure applied at some point along the beam 80 that isthe switch 80 will cause distortion, flattening out the curvatureillustrated. Eventually, a pronounced bend or kink is caused by theelasticity and deflection of those elements 90, 92, 94, 96. Theequilibrator 96 provides sufficient force that will bias the switch 80back to an open position and a straight position.

Referring to FIGS. 19 through 21 , the embodiment of FIG. 19 shows acover 88 formed of two pieces having some fastener 98 or fastening 98extending lengthwise therealong. This may be a heat seal, a seam, aweld, a glue line, or the like. Thus, according to the material fromwhich the cover 88 is made, a particular fastener 98 or fasteningmechanism 98 may be employed.

In contrast, the embodiment of FIG. 20 involves a single wrap ofmaterial that is then bonded 98 or fastened 98 at the extremity 99 oredges 99 only where they join. Since the cover 88 constitutes a wraparound the internal components 90, 92, 94, 96, only one line long thelength of the switch 80 is required to be closed.

Referring to FIG. 21 , it has been found advisable to maintainsufficient space within the housing 88 or cover 88 to permit free motionby the conductors 90, 92 and the equilibrator 96. Thus, in theembodiment of FIG. 21 , the housing 88 may be formed of a material suchas an extruded plastic, rubber, a woven continuous sleeve 88, or thelike. However, it has also been found that heat-shrunk tubing does notserve well for the cover 88. Part of the “heat shrink” function is tobind bundles of wires or cables together by applying compression,corresponding to tension within the tubing itself. That tension appliesforces that distort, deflect, or override the bias forces within theconductors 90, 92 and the equilibrator 96 in the neutral position.Accordingly, it has been found that interference by the housing 88 orcover 88 is problematic. Some slack must be accommodated.

Referring to FIG. 22 , a web 12 may be embodied as part of a pet bed100, or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of across-section of one embodiment of such a pet bed 100 has a cover 102that may circumnavigate the entire structure 100. Typically, a layer 104of foam, batting, or the like, such as a flexible elastomeric foam, orthe like may be used to conform to the comparatively flexible cover 102.

A web 12 may be embedded in the bulk padding 106 in the bed 100. Manypet beds 100 are formed with a padding 106 constituted by shreddedurethane or other elastomeric foam. This elastomeric foam in piecesreadily forms recesses 108 to accommodate the web 12 embedded therein.In other embodiments, the web 12 may be accommodated by recesses 108actually formed in a monolithic or otherwise molded foam pad 106. It hasbeen found that chopped foam as the bulk padding 106 seems to work well,and accommodates readily the increased stress caused locally within thepadding 106 by the presence of the nodes 20, runners 22 or connectors22, and so forth. Thus, it has not been found necessary to pre-form therecesses 108. Instead, those recesses 108 are naturally formed by theweight of a body on the top of the cover 102. The direction 110 of theelectromagnetic flux lines propagated through the cores 40 by the coils50 in each of the nodes 20 passes directly across a comparatively shortdistance required to reach a user. Meanwhile, forces opposite thedirection 110 of weight will tend to press the web 12 into the mat 106or padding 106.

Referring to FIG. 23 , a system 10 is illustrated having a pet bed 100into which is embedded a web 12 such as that shown (for comparison) ontop of the bed 100. In certain embodiments, the web 12 and the overallsystem 10 may actually be placed under a blanket on top of a pet bed100. However, it has been found suitable to build the web 12 into thepet bed 100, and particularly inside the cover 102 in order to provideadditional comfort. Meanwhile, the switch 80 over the web 12 detectsdeflection caused by the weight of a body resting thereon. Thisactivates the switch 80, closing its circuit, and notifying thecontroller 70 to operate the pulsed electromagnetic field according to apre-programmed regimen.

Referring to FIG. 24 , while continuing to refer generally to FIGS. 1through 24 , a pet using a pet bed 100 need not be aware of the web 12with its electromagnetic pulse system. The pulse is assisting with cellregeneration of both soft and hard tissues, as well as other healthyconditions.

One will note that prior art attempts at using electromagnetic force orpulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) have focused on large loops, matsthat appear like old fashioned braided rag rugs in which a large oval isformed by sewing together thick cords of braided fabric material. As apractical matter, such systems often necessarily required stabilizationor support by chairs, tables, other large structures, and so forth. Eachof such systems relied on several loops arranged in a large flatmore-or-less planar “rug” of loops.

In contrast, a system and method in accordance with the inventionproduce substantial benefits in a focused approach. They also employ amore narrowly focused and directed PEMF generator 30 or source 30. Forexample, micro-coils 50 in accordance with the invention have a diameterless than 2 inches, and may often have a diameter less than an inch.Moreover, their thickness may be less than a centimeter, and may be halfa centimeter or less. Likewise, rather than applying a PEMF pulse over along period of time, duty cycles may be on the order of about 10percent.

In experiments it has been found that a PEMF treatment lasting more thana total of two hours per day of actual application of pulses issufficient to meet the maximum benefit. Continued exposure over acumulative time greater than two hours has not proven effective.Instead, two modes may be used for applying the suitable duty cycle ortotal exposure time.

First, a duty cycle that turns the controller 70 on or provides throughthe controller 70 a series of pulsed PEMF wave forms may have a dutycycle of from about one to about one hundred percent. Typically, duringa day, the controller 70 may be programmed to provide pulses over a timeperiod that represents a specific fraction of the time that a user willspend exposed to the web 12.

For example, if a user is sitting in an arm chair or other comfortableseating, for example, watching a movie or the like at home, then theuser may desire to have the entire treatment completed within onetwo-hour block of time. Accordingly, the duty cycle of the controller 70may be set for one hundred percent. Timers may be set to control thepulses to occur or present a treatment over a total of two hours at onehundred percent duty cycle. Such treatments are favored by active peoplewho have specific treatment needs.

On the other hand, if a subject is to be exposed to the web 12 as partof bedding, such as in the pet bed 100, or in a mat suitable for humanuse, then one may set the duty cycle to accumulate a total of two hoursof exposure during the entire time of use. A user may have a twentypercent duty cycle operating throughout an eight hour night of sleep.This provides the maximum effective dosage of two hours total during aperiod of the eight hours of sleeping.

Likewise, a pet or human user may rely on a pre-programmed regimencontrolled by the controller 70 and timing the use over a twenty fourhour day. In such an event, the switch 80 may be used to detect thepresence of a user, such as a person or pet, lying above the web 12, andactuating the switch 80. Accordingly, the controller 70 may beprogrammed to apply the PEMF pulse sequence in a one hundred percentduty cycle or some other duty cycle appropriate to accumulate the totalproper amount within each day. In certain embodiments, the controller 70includes clocks, timers, on and off actuators, delay selections,duration selections, and so forth. Thus, a user may program thecontroller 70 directly or indirectly through a computer or the buttons72 and display 74 to select or prescribe a regimen. Thus, a system 10 inaccordance with the invention is much more robust, flexible as toregimen, flexible as to control, and physically flexible as to itsoccasional user. Such characteristics have been unavailable inconventional prior art systems seeking to employ PEMF therapies.

One may think of the coils 50 embedded in each of the nodes 20 assources 30 of PEMF pules establishing “shotgun points” around, andthroughout a subject or even an appendage of a subject. For example, inthe embodiment of FIG. 23 , an entire subject may be exposed to an arrayof comparatively high intensity sources 30 in the nodes 20 all directedmore or less upward into the subject “user.”

In contrast, in the application embodied in FIG. 11 , the micro-coils 50within the nodes 20 are each directed in their own direction, normal(perpendicular) to a surface to which each is applied or is in contact.Thus, PEMF pulses may be irradiating the member from many differentdirections, and many different locations simultaneously. Such abombarding of the member is done by intensified directed,electromagnetic flux. That flux is guided by the iron cores 40 withinthe coils 50. This intensity and direction provide increasedeffectiveness, direction, control, and specificity. For example,conventional mats or “rugs” of coils provide little guidance and no coreas a guide for the lines of electromagnetic flux. Accordingly, suchlines of flux immediately turn away from one another on each side oreach face of the rug.

In contrast, the locations of cores 40, the proximity to the surface ofa member or of the body of a user, and the multiple directions fromwhich such a member is immersed or may be immersed, all contribute tohigher intensities, better direction, and a normalization or evening outof the exposure.

In contrast, consider flux lines from a conventional PEMF mat or rug.Having no iron core to direct them, they pass through the center of suchan oval, flat rug, and proceed to return back along paths almostparallel to the surfaces of the mat. This is the typical performance.Penetration into the member affected is minimal, and the amount ofelectromagnetic field propagated normal (perpendicular) to the surfaceof such a mat is a small fraction of the overall magnetic flux generatedand propagated thereby.

Moreover, with the availability of widespread distribution of themicro-coils 50 in individual nodes 20 of the web 12 more than one axisof symmetry (think center line of the core and coil in an axiallydirection) may become available. In a conventional system, a singlelarge mat provides one axis of symmetry, and thus one central locationof maximum penetration, small though it may be. In contrast, thedistributed nature of the nodes 20, each with its own micro-coil 50 andinternal core 40 provides the same maximum direction and maximumstrength for propagation as every other coil 50.

It is notable that the system 10 in accordance with the invention hasbeen applied to soft tissue with remarkable results. Originally applyingthe invention and others related thereto to cases of bone densityremediation or fracture remediation, Applicants discovered that softtissue responds very well to the magnetic flux generated by themicro-coils 50. In fact, casting and otherwise immobilizing bodilymembers, such as feet and legs over a period of several weeks, such asthe typical six to eight weeks required to heal a fracture, providedremediation of the atrophy in muscle tissues normally associated withimmobilization and non-weight-bearing conditions.

In certain embodiments, pads may be formed as the pet bed 100, with moreor less liner 104, padding 106, or both. In certain embodiments, linermaterial 104 placed on both sides of the web 12 and then a cover 102over the entire outside thereof provides a mat that is suitable forcomfortable relaxation thereon by a user. Typical pads 106 or liners 104may be formed of viscous foam (e.g., “memory foam”), comparativelyhigher density urethane foam, or the like. In certain embodiments, acomparatively higher density urethane foam may actually be configured tohave cut outs or apertures for receiving the nodes 20.

In other embodiments, such a comparatively stiffer foam and more densefoam may be configured in wedges to fit within the triangles formed byeach of the runners 22 or connectors 22. In other embodiments, space maybe excavated, or molded into a pad 106 in order to render a pad 106substantially equally thick with the nodes 20. In such an embodiment, acomfortable layup of elastomeric foam liner material 104 may provide asystem that is sufficiently and flexible, comfortable to be used as apad under a user or over a user. In other embodiments, the cover 102,liner 104, and padding 106 may all be dispensed with, and the web 12 maysimply be wrapped around a treatment location at will.

In certain embodiments, micro-coils 50 have been tested on users who arein conditions representing an effective twenty percent loss of mass intissues per year. Upon exposure to micro-coils 50 in accordance with theinvention, all users maintained their baseline cellular mass. This, invarious experiments has been found to be the case in both bone cells andsoft tissue cells.

Various sizes of webs 12 may be formed. Shapes may be configuredsomewhat arbitrarily for the individual direction, length, and so forthof each of the connectors 22 or runners 22 between the nodes 20. Arectangular, circular, hexagonal, or other polygonal shape may beformed. It has been found particularly acceptable to use a hexagonalshape illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 11 in order to provide a suitablespacing, and a straightforward connection scheme. Cross-sections ofrunners 22 may similarly be circular, triangular, square, otherpolygonal, semi circular, or the like.

As far as connection schemes are considered, one may begin theelectrical circuit within the web 12 at any particular node 20.Accordingly, a corner node 20 of a polygon is a suitable place.Likewise, a node 22 intermediate two corners (vertices) of a polygon hasalso been found to be a suitable place. The circuit may then pass fromthat particular node 20 to an adjacent node 20. The path becomes azig-zag or back-and-forth pattern up and down adjacent, parallel rows orcolumns of nodes 20.

However, in each row or drum of nodes 20, the wire 46 of the connector22 does not pass all the way to the outer perimeter or periphery.Eventually, the connectors 22 must carry the wires 46, and specificallytheir conductors 47 along a pattern that will avoid back trackingthrough any particular leg 22 or connector 22.

That is, it not advantageous to have one of the connectors 22 be morestiff than another. The addition of multiple paths or wires 46, andparticularly the metal conductors 47, through a single connector 22would provide an increased stiffness. This is due to increasing thesection modulus (a term of art specific to structural engineering andknown in the art). With the hexagonal pattern, one may always develop apath that does not require more than a single wire 46 to be embeddedwithin any connector 22, and thus no backtracking.

In a typical embodiment, the return path or the last legs of theelectrical circuit may then pass through the unconnected peripheralnodes 20 to arrive back at the originating node 20 of the circuit. Thus,it is possible and it has been found suitable to connect all the nodes20 into a single series connection in certain embodiments of anapparatus 10 in accordance with the invention.

In tests, pet owners have found that a web 12 embedded in a pet bed 100as described hereinabove has provided relief for various ailments indogs. Particularly, older, arthritic pets have been observed to becomemuch more active, flexible, and able to increase movement and energy bysleeping on a pet bed 100 in accordance with the invention.

Soft tissue improvements in human patients have also been observed inexperiments. For example, sprains, swelling, trauma, diabeticcirculation issues, and the like often result in damage and subsequentinflammation in cells of soft tissue. In certain experiments, a user wasobserved to lose two inches of ankle diameter within two weeks. Theswelling had originated in an ankle causing much pain, inflammation, andso forth.

As a practical matter, Applicants have considered the potential forinterference between PEMF sources 30 in prior art inventions ofApplicants. In observing experiments, Applicants have determined thatthe multiple iron cores 40 associated with the micro-coils 50 provide awave guide with greater penetration, higher flux density, and yet fullcoverage and from multiple directions for an appendage or body. Spacingthe nodes 20 at the selected distance, in the illustration about nine totwelve inches apart, may range from about four to about eighteen inchesapart. A target distance is about ten inches.

Interference has been minimized because flux density has beenconcentrated right along the central axis of the coils 50 in each of thenodes 20. Thus, contrary to prior art attempts with coil mats, the fluxdensity here is reversed, and is concentrated toward the central axis,rather than immediately concentrating around the surfaces of the flatcoils of prior art systems. Meanwhile, since much less of the fluxdensity is spread out away, there is less interference between the coils50, which with their cores 40 operate as electromagnets.

Exercise is an interesting phenomenon. In recent years, exercisephysiology has recognized the value of exercising all bodily members inmultiple directions. That is, in some decades past, it has been commonto develop exercise machines for improving a specific motion of aspecific muscle or muscle group. However, modern exercise physiology hasdetermined that the body may often be aided by maintaining the entirebodily core engaged in exercise by such activities as maintainingbalance, free standing during exercise with various resistancemechanisms or weights, and so forth.

Applicants have determined that the operation of a system 10 inaccordance with the invention appears to accord with exercise. Likewise,the multi-directional flux densities or directions of propagated fluxdensities provides, effectively, exercise in multiple directions. Bysuitable arrangement of the web 12 around a bodily member, one mayeffectively “exercise” a member even while that member is unloaded andstationary from a macroscopic viewpoint.

On a microscopic viewpoint, the cells are being exercised by the PEMFgenerated and propagated by each of the micro-coils 50. Thus, theobserved conditioning of bone and muscle (in general, all tissuesapparently) of a user occurs in response to the multi-directional natureof the bombardments from the nodes 20 of the web 12.

Thus, in general, the observed users experienced non-depredation of bonedensity and muscle mass, and enjoyed improvement in general health ofthe bodily members treated by the system 10 in accordance with theinvention.

In the illustrated embodiments, Applicants have determined thattreatment for chronic conditions, rather than acute conditions alone,may be effected by application of PEMF regimens to members or bodies ofsubjects. Because of the non-conservation-of-mass (or the flexibilityand arbitrary arrangement) possible by a user arranging the web 12,various bodily members may be treated. Moreover, they may be treatedfrom different angles on different occasions, different days, ordifferent sessions. Meanwhile, chronic conditions, such as arthritis inpets appear to be remediated by use of the system 10.

Similarly, plantar fasciitis is a condition that results in substantialswelling and sensitivity of the nerves in bodily members. Plantarfasciitis is extremely painful and largely unresponsive, particularly indiabetics. In experiments with the system 10 in accordance with theinvention, eight subjects out of eight test subjects were successful inovercoming inflammation due to plantar fasciitis.

Likewise, this micro-scale exercising of cells within a member or bodyby the PEMF of the micro-coils 50 appears to improve the adenosinetri-phosphate (ATP) levels in treated subjects. Such improved levels ofATP bode well for various health effects attributed to ATP, and reportedin medical, scientific, nutritional, and other literature.

It has also noted that cancerous cells tend to be low in energy levels,and cells that are unhealthy tend to bunch up with one another. Thisresults in a net decrease in surface area available for the transportprocesses of intake and outflow of materials (nutrients and wastes,oxygen, and so forth) across the surfaces of cells. That is, materialsmigrate through cell walls. To the extent that cells bunch up together,each covers a surface of another cell, thus denying each cell that muchsurface area available for the diffusion across the boundary of wastes,nutrients, and so forth.

In contrast, healthy cells tend to repel one another. The immersive,pulsed, magnetic flux from the micro-coils 50 appears to provideimproved cell energy, less bunching, and thus improved cellular health.

The iron core 40 acting as a flux guide 40 for the micro-coil 50 permitspoint-controlled dosing. A particular joint may be positioned directlyunder one or more nodes 20 secured to the surface of a bodily member.Thus, point dosing at comparatively higher intensities than prior artsystems is effected by the micro-coils 50 in the nodes 20 in web 12 inaccordance with the invention.

The connection scheme of the nodes 20 in web 12 provides considerabledimensional stability in the hexagonal format. Enclosed triangularshapes are formed by adjacent connectors 22 or runners 22. Likewise,with the hexagonal configuration, the electrical wire circuit may escapefrom closed corners while connecting between adjacent nodes 20 thevarious coils 50. Applicants have tested various configurations and havenot found anywhere that the hexagonal shape cannot access each node 20.Access is by one wire from any and all necessary directions, and noduplicate or backtracking conductors 47 or wires 46 traveling throughconnectors 22.

As a practical matter, the number of turns, voltage, current, and soforth passing through each coil 50 may be engineered to provide asuitable value of each. As a practical matter, the presence of ironcores 40 as flux guides has reduced the number of turns, the totalvoltage, and the amount of current required to provide the suitableamount of dosing of PEMF applied to a user.

As a matter of physical practicality, the tape switch 80 or contactswitch 80 illustrated may be configured to be of any suitable length.However, it has been found that passing it completely across the center“diameter” of a web 12 assures that any body lying on top of the web 12will properly engage the switch 80 and turn it on.

To accommodate movement of a pet, it has been found that a delay, suchas from about five to about twenty seconds is appropriate beforeshutting off power to the web 12 upon the straightening (de-activation)of the switch 80. It has not been found necessary or appropriate to haveany delay in onset of power to the web 12 upon activation of the switch80. However, a range of from about five to about twenty seconds ofdelay, or more, may be useful, and ten seconds has been found suitablefor most situations. This assures that a pet who moves about, will stillbe treated, yet the system 10 will shut off if the bed 100 is abandonedfor movement to other locations or activities.

Likewise, the electrical connection suitable for the web 12 has beenfound easily handled by a plug 85 such as those commonly used inelectronic and audio equipment. For example, a 2.5-millimeter-diameterstandard plug on a cord 84 has been found suitable. A matching jack 26embedded in a node 20 provides a suitable connection scheme. Thisprovides for a minimum amount of tangling of cords 82, 84, 86 with theweb 12. This also provides for simple dismantling of the system 10 androlling up the web 12 with or without a cover 102. In fact, the web 12may be folded in multiple directions, rolled, or the like.

As a matter of connection scheme, the switch 80, which may be referredto as a tape switch, tac switch, ribbon switch, or the like. It may beconnected so as not to override the handset 70 or controller 70.Typically, the switch 80 operates as a communication device by openingand closing a circuit detected by the controller 70. Thus, thecontroller 70 may be configured to work with or without the switch 80.

In certain embodiments, tested in accordance with the invention,micro-coils 40 having approximately ninety three turns in twenty feet ofwire 42 have been found suitable. Likewise, a connection of all themicro-coils 50 in series has been found suitable. In another embodiment,separate coils 50 individually constructed, and individually connectedwith individual wires may also serve. Typically, in construction, thewires 46 for the connectors 22 have been found to be suitable whenformed of a copper, stranded wire of about twenty two gauge or less.

By pre-making the lengths of each, and the bare ends 48 of theconductors 47 therein, it has been found a straightforward matter tosolder together the bare ends 44 of the magnet wires 42 with the bareends 48 of the connector wires 46 in ready fashion. The iron core 40 maybe cast as an insert in each spool 32, in order to avoid requiring anydraft angle in molding. However, in other embodiments, the cores 40 maysimply be inserted into the apertures 35 of the barrels 34 of the spools32 and held there by the adhesive of a cover 52 or plate 52 serving asan insulator, securement, and electrical isolator for the bare ends 44,48.

The controller 70 may connect to a computer wirelessly, or with a port,such as a USB port. However, it has not been found necessary. Meanwhile,the web 12 has been found to provide sufficient comfort when placed in apad 106 or mass 106 of padding formed of chopped elastomeric foam suchas is common in informal seating, pet beds 100, and the like.

In certain embodiments, a single hexagonal web 12 as illustrated in FIG.23 may be suitable. In other embodiments, such as those of FIGS. 9 and10 , an extended hexagonal pattern has been found suitable. Over thetop, a cover 102 has been found sufficient in many embodiments. If theweb 12 is placed under a sheet, it is typically best placed under amemory foam liner and under the mattress cover in order to providesufficient amelioration of the difference in density, stiffness, andshape that the nodes 20 and connectors 22 present.

The switch 80 provides a minimization of duty cycle by allowingprogramming of the controller 70 to simply operate until the totalcumulative hours of treatment have been reached. The only reason to stopis not really safety but simply that there is no benefit beyond twohours of treatment per day. Thus, automatic dosing is available eventhough there is not a danger or damage to the patient nor to the device.

Bedridden patients may thus be provided protection in dosingautomatically without manual intervention. Meanwhile, an individualseated or in bed incapable of personal movement control may simply applythe web 12 in any manner suitable, including over or around a particularbodily member for which treatment is desired.

Typically, the mold 60 is a single piece mold with open cavities and thesubstrate 54 is a vibrating table. Thus, high-density polyethylene,nylon, or the like may be used in forming the mold 60. Molds 60 do notneed the complexities, costs, durability, heat-transfer capacity, etc.of metals, such as aluminum and steel.

The resin for the web 12 has been found to be robust. Strength,flexibility, dimension maintenance, and the like are all provided quitestraightforwardly by a two-part, room-temperature-curing siliconecomposition. Meanwhile, such resins are available and may be specifiedwith cure rates or times of from twenty minutes to about six hours.

The stranded wires 46 have been found to be sufficiently flexiblepowered by a voltage of about twenty four volts and three amps maximumon the power supply. A ten percent duty cycle is typical, but a user maycontrol that duty cycle to be one hundred percent for a lesser time forthe total amount. At current rates, a 72-Hertz system was originallydeveloped but a 50 Hertz frequency has been found suitable in the web 12in accordance with the invention. Ten percent of the wave form is “poweron,” with ten percent of the wave form “power off.” Typically, at50-Hertz, ten percent of each cycle is exposed to the applicationfrequency, and the other ninety percent is simply idle.

It has been found that the efficacy of the system 10 in accordance withthe invention is not improved above 50 Hertz. Although certain resonantfrequencies may require other testing, and some argue that 7.2 Hertz isoptimal, others argue that there is no optimum. Applicants have foundthat above the 50 Hertz frequency no additional benefit has beenobserved.

Thus, whereas laser therapy has been found useful, such devices costthousands and tens of thousands of dollars. They require extensivetraining, protection for users and technicians, and so forth. Incontrast, a system 10 in accordance with the invention isstraightforward, simple to operate, provides no known negative sideeffects, and no inherent dangers to user or operator.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its purposes, functions, structures, or operationalcharacteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in allrespects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of theinvention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims, rather thanby the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaningand range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within theirscope.

What is claimed and desired to be secured by United States LettersPatent is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: runners connected as a web to oneanother at vertices defining polygons of empty space between therunners, the runners being capable of arrangement corresponding to aplane, each runner is flexible to bend in multiple directions orthogonalto the length, both in and out of the plane; and nodes, each node beingpositioned as a vertex, of the vertices, interconnecting ends of atleast two of the runners; the runners, each providing a correspondingand exclusive interconnection between adjacent nodes; each nodecontaining an electromagnet comprising a micro-coil capable ofgenerating a magnetic flux and surrounding a core capable of acting as aflux guide therefor, directing the magnetic flux normal to the planealong a central axis; and wherein the runners contain conductorselectrically connecting the electromagnets to receive electricity. 2.The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a controller operablyconnected to deliver the electricity to the nodes.
 3. The apparatus ofclaim 2, programmed to dose the magnetic flux.
 4. The apparatus of claim3, wherein the nodes each have a surface positionable with respect to amember of a body of a subject.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein thesurface is positionable at an arbitrary angle corresponding to a skinsurface of the subject.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein thecontroller is programmed to pulse an electromagnetic field at afrequency selected to effect cellular exercise by generation of anelectromagnetic flux in the member as a result of the electromagneticfield.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein each runner is formed tobend in an arc having a radius selected to protect the conductor in eachrunner to resist mechanical failure.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein: each node comprises at least one substantially flat surfaceparallel to the plane and positionable out of the plane; each runner issufficiently flexible to position proximate a surface of a body of asubject; the nodes and runners form plurality of polygons defined by therunners as sides and the nodes as the vertices connecting the sides; andthe apparatus comprises a controller operably connected to energize themicro-coils to control dosing by the electromagnetic field bycontrolling at least one of a frequency and a duration.
 9. The apparatusof claim 1, further comprising a controller operable to provide a dosingregimen by pulsing an electromagnetic field at a frequency selected tobe effective to obtain a cellular exercise response from a subjectexposed to the electromagnetic flux resulting from the electromagneticfield.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein: the frequency is from 7 to70 Hertz; and the controller is operably connected to apply theelectromagnetic flux at the frequency during a duty cycle, representinga percentage of time that the micro-coils are powered, from 5 to 90percent.
 11. A method for eliciting a response by at least one oftissues and cells in vivo, the method comprising: providing runnerselongate and interconnected, at vertices to form a web of polygonsdefining empty space between the runners, the runners forming exclusivemechanical and electrical connections between vertices of the polygons,and corresponding to a plane, each runner extending a sufficient length,and each runner is flexible to bend in multiple directions, transverseto each runner's length, in and out of the plane, and nodes, whereineach node is positioned as a vertex, of the vertices, interconnectingends of at least two of the runners, the runners providing exclusiveinterconnections between the nodes, wherein each node further containsan electromagnet comprising a micro-coil, surrounding a core and capableof generating a magnetic flux in said core acting as a flux guidetherefor, each core directing the magnetic flux normal to the planealong a central axis thereof and not relying on any interaction with anyother node, and each runner contains a conductor electrically connectingthe electromagnets in adjacent nodes to receive electricity thereto;positioning the electromagnets to conform arbitrarily to a body of asubject by positioning the nodes by flexing the runners; selectivelycontrolling power to the electromagnets; and directing the magnetic fluxby concentrating along the central axis of each core.
 12. The method ofclaim 11, further comprising directing the magnetic flux into livingcells, said cells selected from bone cells and muscle cells.
 13. Themethod of claim 11, further comprising providing a controller, saidcontroller activating the electromagnets according to a pre-determinedpulsing regimen.
 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:selecting a member of the subject; positioning the nodes proximate asurface of the member; and exposing the member to an electromagneticfield guided by the cores.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein thesubject is selected to be a mammal.
 16. The method of claim 11, whereinthe runners and nodes are formed into the web of polygons formed by therunners, wherein the nodes form the vertices thereon.
 17. The method ofclaim 11, further comprising placing at least some of the nodes in anorientation rendering the central axis to be at least one of paralleland tangent to the subject.
 18. The method of claim 11, furthercomprising positioning the nodes about a member of the subject bybending the runners “out of plane” with respect to the plane to orient aplurality of the nodes at unique angles with respect to one another. 19.The method of claim 11, wherein: the runners and nodes comprise ahomogeneously molded, elastomeric polymer; the nodes and runners areformed into the web of polygons defining empty space therewithin; andthe runners define sides and the nodes define the vertices of thepolygons.
 20. A method comprising: providing electromagnets, eachelectromagnet comprising a wire wrapped around a core of iron togenerate an electromagnetic field not engaged with that of anotherelectromagnet; providing runners arranged in a web defining polygons ofempty space within the runners forming exclusive mechanical andelectrical connections between the electromagnets; arranging the runnersas sides and the electromagnets as nodes acting as vertices in the web;and positioning the nodes of the web on a subject in a deployedconfiguration by wrapping the runners in arbitrary directions withrespect to a plane corresponding to the web in an unappliedconfiguration.